Sheriff Joe Arpaio decides not to run for Arizona governor

APMaricopa County, Arizona, Sheriff Joe Arpaio
PHOENIX - Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, the lawman known for bringing back chain gangs and pushing the bounds of local immigration enforcement, says he has decided against running for governor.

This marks the fourth gubernatorial election cycle since 1998 where the Springfield, Mass. native has flirted with - but ultimately decided against - running for governor.

If Arpaio decided to run for governor, Arizona law would have required him to resign immediately because he isn't in the final year of his current term as sheriff.

The 77-year-old Republican has served five terms as sheriff.

Arpaio's campaign says he has raised $2 million for his re-election bid over the last year.